Measure for Measure Act 2 Analysis | Shakespeare Play by Play Season 1

Summary

In this analysis of Act 2 of Shakespeare's *Measure for Measure*, the complexities of law, mercy, and morality unfold through the characters Angelo and Isabella. The video explores how personal beliefs clash with public standards as Isabella pleads for her brother Claudio's pardon, while Angelo struggles between his desire for her and his duty to enforce the law. The discussion delves into themes of power, shame, and the human condition, highlighting the contradictions in the justice system and the impact of societal expectations on personal ethics. The act ends with a dramatic confrontation, setting the stage for deeper moral dilemmas.

Takeaways

• 😀 Public standards of behavior can often conflict with personal beliefs and morals, as demonstrated by the characters in *Measure for Measure*.
• 🤔 Isabella's plea for mercy highlights the struggle between private desires for compassion and the rigid enforcement of the law.
• ⚖️ Angelo represents the strict application of justice, believing that punishing Claudio serves as a necessary example for society.
• 💔 The act raises questions about the effectiveness of shame and punishment in achieving moral behavior, especially when genuine love and consent are involved.
• 🗣️ Isabella's arguments evolve throughout the act, showcasing her growing passion and commitment to advocating for her brother.
• 😡 The character of Angelo reveals the dangers of power, as he attempts to coerce Isabella into a sexual relationship to spare Claudio's life.
• 👥 Escalus acts as a contrast to Angelo, illustrating the possibility of mercy in the judicial process, although his influence is limited.
• 📜 The notion that the law must apply equally to all, regardless of virtue or background, is challenged by the characters' experiences and social standings.
• 👁️ The play emphasizes the complexities of human judgment, suggesting that the law is only as just as the individuals who enforce it.
• 🌌 Ultimately, the act underscores the theme that moral integrity often clashes with societal expectations, leaving characters like Isabella in difficult positions.

Q & A

What is the primary conflict faced by the teacher regarding student submissions?

The teacher struggles with the disconnect between personal beliefs about a student's brilliant work and the objective standards outlined in the rubric. While the essay may be insightful, it doesn't meet the rubric's requirements, leading to a dilemma about grading.

How does the play 'Measure for Measure' relate to the teacher's conflict?

The play explores the tension between public standards of behavior, represented by the law, and private desires for mercy. This mirrors the teacher's struggle between personal judgments and the objective grading criteria.

What argument does Escalus present in favor of pardoning Claudio?

Escalus argues for Claudio's pardon by highlighting Claudio's virtuous character and family background, suggesting that the law should consider individual circumstances rather than blindly enforce punishment.

How does Angelo justify his strict enforcement of the law?

Angelo believes that the law must punish those it catches, even if others also violate it. He uses Claudio's case as a way to re-establish the authority of the law and ensure that everyone fears its consequences.

What does Isabella mean when she says to 'hate the sin but not the sinner'?

Isabella is pleading for compassion towards her brother Claudio, suggesting that the moral failing lies in the act (the sin) rather than in Claudio himself (the sinner). She seeks mercy in a harsh legal environment.

What role does comic relief play in the act?

Comic relief is introduced through the character of Pompey, who provides humor and a break from the tension of the serious themes of crime and punishment, highlighting the absurdities within the legal system.

What transformation does Angelo undergo throughout the act?

Initially a strict enforcer of the law, Angelo becomes conflicted as he develops feelings for Isabella, leading him to compromise his principles and ultimately attempt to coerce her into a sexual relationship.

How does the theme of public versus private morality manifest in Angelo's character?

Angelo starts with a strong public moral stance but becomes increasingly conflicted as his private desires challenge his role as a judge. His attempts to separate public law from personal morality ultimately lead to his downfall.

What significance does Isabella's refusal have at the end of Act 4?

Isabella's refusal to comply with Angelo's coercion represents a stand against the corruption of power and the moral complexities of the situation. It emphasizes her strength and autonomy in the face of a threatening authority.

What overarching questions does the script pose regarding morality and justice?

The script raises questions about the effectiveness of laws, the nature of justice, and the consequences of prioritizing public standards over individual mercy, suggesting that such approaches can lead to moral failures.